How to Keep Mosquitoes Away from the Terrace Garden—10 Pest-Repelling Plants to Grow

The warm and humid summer months see an increase in mosquito activity, making it difficult to enjoy outdoor spaces, including terrace gardens. Mosquitoes are more than just a nuisance; they carry diseases like dengue, malaria, and chikungunya. While chemical repellents are widely used for mosquito prevention, they often contain harmful ingredients that can affect health and the environment. A safer and more sustainable approach is to grow pest-repelling plants that naturally deter pests and mosquitoes. These plants create a more comfortable and healthier outdoor space with their strong fragrances and essential oils.

Here are 10 plants that keep mosquitoes away and tips to use them effectively.

1. Lavender

Lavenders are pest-repelling plants that contain a compound (linalool) known for its insect-repelling properties. While humans love its pleasant fragrance, mosquitoes stay away.

How to use:

• Plant lavender in pots around seating areas.
• Crushing the leaves enhances its mosquito-repelling effect. You can also dry lavender flowers and place them in sachets indoors.

2. Marigold

Marigolds produce pyrethrum, a natural insecticide commonly used in mosquito repellents.

How to use:

• Grow marigolds near entry points, windows, and around the terrace perimeter. Their bright flowers add aesthetic appeal while keeping mosquitoes away.

3. Citronella grass plant

This plant is rich in citronella oil, a well-known natural mosquito repellent.

How to use:

• Grow citronella in large pots around seating areas.
• Crush the leaves to release citronella oil, intensifying its repellent properties.
• You can also extract the oil for DIY sprays.

4. Scented Geranium

Scented geraniums emit a strong citrus aroma that naturally deters mosquitoes.

How to use:

• Place these pest-repelling plants in hanging baskets or pots near doors and windows. Their vibrant flowers also add beauty to your garden and home.

Grow scented geranium from seeds.

5. Catmint

Catmint (also known as catnip) contains nepetalactone, a compound proven more effective than DEET, a common chemical repellent.

How to use:

• Grow catmint as a border plant.
• Rub the leaves on your skin. The scent will keep mosquitoes away.
• A bonus—if you have a resident cat, they will love it!

6. Rosemary

The pungent aroma of rosemary masks human scent, so mosquitoes can’t locate their targets.

How to use:

• Place potted rosemary on outdoor tables.
• Burn dried rosemary sprigs to release fragrant oils that repel mosquitoes.

7. Basil

Basil emits essential oils that repel mosquitoes and flies.

How to use:

• Grow basil plants near kitchen doors or seating areas.
• Crush the leaves and rub them on your skin for extra protection.

8. Mint

The strong menthol scent of mint is highly effective at keeping mosquitoes at bay.

How to use:

• Grow mint plants in pots to contain them. Otherwise, they will take over the raised bed or trough planter.
• Crushing the leaves enhances the plant’s pest-repellent properties.

9. Sage

Sage releases aromatic oils when burned, repelling mosquitoes naturally.

How to use:

• Burn dried sage leaves in fire pits or small containers on your terrace.
• Plant sage near seating areas to help deter pests.

10. Allium plants (Garlic, Chives, Onions)

Allium plants contain sulphur compounds that repel mosquitoes and other insects.

How to use:

• Grow allium plants—garlic, chives, or onions in terrace garden beds.
• Fresh garlic cloves can be used in DIY mosquito-repellent sprays.

Additional Tips for a Mosquito-Free Terrace Garden

• Regular pruning: Trim plants frequently to maintain their strong mosquito-repelling properties.
• Remove stagnant water: Standing water in saucers, trays, and pots becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Regularly check and remove water from plant saucers, gutters, and pots.
• Companion planting: Group pest-repelling plants together for enhanced effectiveness. For example, basil and marigolds work well alongside citronella grass, adding texture and colour to the garden’s aesthetic.

Growing mosquito-repellent plants in your terrace garden is a simple and natural way to keep these pests away. These plants provide an effective defence against mosquitoes and enhance your garden’s beauty and fragrance. Try growing them to experience the benefits of a chemical-free mosquito-repellent system!

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